ArtsLab

I have nothing to say but good words about ArtsLab and their staff, and truly appreciate all that they have done for me. Each week I attended, I felt like I’d walked away with more confidence. I was helped through the entire process of finding a job; from organising my portfolio, sorting out my CVs, getting advice on job searching, analysing job advertisements, learning how to write great cover letters, cold-calling prospective employers, doing mock interviews, workshops on social media, plus a workshop on budgeting and tax info for the self-employed: all giving me invaluable skills that I will hold onto for life. But apart from all of these great benefits, I was able to spend hours in the company of other like-minded job seekers (and some who have now become good friends), giving me even more incentive to find work. And along with the staff who were always encouraging, friendly and happy to listen as well as give out advice, I found my experience in JobLab not only productive but really enjoyable. Therefore I really recommend their services to anyone who needs that extra push to get them on the right track of finding work

It’s hard after you graduate from art school. It almost feels like you are left alone. When I graduated, I had few ideas but didn’t know exactly what to do and where to start. When you don’t have specific things to do it’s easy to get depressed and lose your belief in your own work. As I attended meetings and the workshop I slowly gained confidence. ArtsLab not only taught me how to get out in the real world but encouraged me personally and helped me to believe in what I was doing. ArtsLab supported me in every aspect and covered my weaknesses. ArtsLab is the transition place between the art school and the real world. Things that you should know, but are not taught at art school are covered by ArtsLab. I was lucky to be part of the ArtsLab programme.

My ArtsLab experience was exceptional! I was doubtful at first, as I went into the programme feeling overqualified and as if I already had all the tools I needed for successful job hunting. The ArtsLab staff were so kind and proved that they were truly there to help get us back on our feet in a safe space. They coached us through the elements of job hunting, provided job interview coaching and offered networking opportunities and advice from established creative professionals — All of this, including their tailored CV and cover letter templates, helped me to quickly secure work within my field.